What is ePHI?

Electronic Protected Health Information, commonly referred to as ePHI, encompasses any protected health information that is created, transmitted, or stored in electronic form. Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), ePHI includes a wide range of information such as medical records, billing information, and any other data that can identify an individual and is maintained in electronic systems.

The significance of ePHI lies in its regulation under HIPAA, which sets standards for how healthcare providers, insurers, and their business associates manage and protect this sensitive information. This regulation is essential to prevent data breaches and ensure that individuals' health information remains confidential and secure.

Understanding ePHI is critical for anyone in the healthcare field, as it helps to inform practices related to data security, patient privacy, and compliance with federal laws. This knowledge is especially pertinent given the increasing reliance on electronic records and communication in healthcare settings.